It May Not Be Just
a Matter of Appearance
Penile curvature — where the penis is not straight but curves forward, backward, or sideways — can potentially lead to inability to have sexual intercourse or even penile fracture.
Definition
Penile Curvature:
Clearly Visible During Erection
Penile curvature, commonly known as "banana penis," refers to a condition where the penis curves in one direction due to congenital or acquired causes. There is typically no curvature or pain when flaccid, but it becomes clearly visible during erection.
A slight degree of penile curvature is generally considered normal, and not all curvature is diagnosed as penile curvature disorder. Curvature of 30 degrees or more is diagnosed as penile curvature disorder. However, even when the curvature is less than 30 degrees, treatment may be necessary if the patient has cosmetic concerns or if either partner experiences pain or discomfort during intercourse.
Cause of Penile Curvature #1
Congenital Causes
Congenital penile curvature refers to cases where there are no abnormalities in the shape of the penis or urethra, and no hard nodules are palpable inside the penis, yet the penis curves during erection.
Cause of Penile Curvature #2
Acquired Causes
01
Peyronie's Disease
A condition where hard lumps grow on the tunica albuginea (the tissue that maintains the shape of the penis), which can cause curvature.
02
Abnormal Vascular Development
Curvature occurs due to blood imbalance within the corpus cavernosum.
03
Trauma or Post-Surgical Sequelae
Curvature can develop after penile injury or penile reconstruction surgery.
04
Environmental Factors
Continuously wearing excessively tight pants or improper masturbation habits that apply persistent pressure to one side can also contribute to penile curvature.
Treatment of Penile Curvature #1
Tissue Grafting
This is a surgery where the fibrotic lesion is excised and a graft is used to close the defect. Compared to tunica albuginea plication, it has the advantage of less penile shortening. However, the surgical process is more complex, and there is a relatively higher possibility of decreased erectile function after surgery.
Treatment of Penile Curvature #2
Tunica Albuginea Plication
This method corrects the curvature by plicating (gathering and suturing) the tunica albuginea on the opposite side of the curvature. It is performed when the curvature is less than 30 degrees, there is no complex penile deformity such as hourglass deformity, and the penile length is sufficient.
In mild cases, curvature can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin E, or steroid injections. However, most cases of penile curvature can be cured through surgery.
Penile Curvature Surgery Information
Duration
30 min
Stitch Removal
12–14 days
Anesthesia
Local
Follow-up
2 visits
Recovery
Same-day return
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